Seven ways to kick your winter slump
Even though we aren’t hibernation animals, winter tends to be a time when we withdraw from many activities and choose to stay closer to home. We are drawn to more comforting foods to keep our bodies warm and usually move less frequently; the later sunrises mean it’s usually more tempting to stay in bed rather than get up and exercise in the dark before work. In turn, we can often come out of winter feeling lacklustre and deficient in energy.
Spring, and the better weather, presents the perfect opportunity to reinvigorate the body and mind, and shake off any residual feelings of lethargy that come from any winter hibernation.
Here are seven ways to shift out of that winter slump and get your body, mind and spirit motivated .
This vitamin has many important functions in the body – from supporting our immune system function and fighting disease, to boosting our metabolism. Studies also suggest that it can help with low mood. A large percentage of New Zealanders have below adequate levels of vitamin D so, given its essential role in the body, it’s a great thing to get checked with your health practitioner. Direct sunshine or supplements can help boost vitamin D levels.
Starting your day with a nourishing practice such as a gentle yoga session, pilates class or stretching routine can help to get your body and mind moving. Alternatively, you might like to begin your day with a walk. Direct sunlight can assist the production of serotonin our feel-good, happy, calm and content hormone. Early morning is the best time to establish this impact on mood and energy.
Long, slow and intentional diaphragmatic breathing (belly breathing) helps us to switch on our body’s calming ‘‘rest and digest’’ response – the parasympathetic nervous system. Taking some time each day to do a breathing exercise can mean the difference between our body being relaxed instead of on high alert. You might like to set a reminder on your phone at least once a day to stop to take a quick breathing break of 10-20 slow breaths.
If you are lacking in energy, feeling tired, depleted or burnt out, chances are, boosting your plant intake will make a world of difference. Loaded with diseasefighting vitamins, minerals, fibre, phytonutrients, and of course, antioxidants, plants feed our body with everything needed to supply us with bundles of energy in return. To enhance nutrient intake even more, try adding a daily scoop of powdered greens to your routine.
When we don’t give ourselves enough time to rest, relax and enjoy life, drive ourselves too hard and perceive ourselves to be under constant pressure, we severely impair our ability to cope with stress and pressure. Instead of doing everything for everyone else and taking on more and more, learn how to flex that ‘‘no’’ muscle more effectively. Avoid overcommitting and make more time for yourself to increase your capacity for joy and gratitude for what you have in your life already.
Reducing your exposure to bright light at night can help you improve your sleep quantity and quality. Although some television programmes can be educational, generally television is better switched off at least two hours before bed. For that hour or so you usually watch television, you may like to read a book instead or do something else that feels nourishing for you.
Take a relaxing hot bath with Epsom salts and soothing herbs like lavender. It will do wonders for your mind and your muscles. If having a bath isn’t your thing, create a relaxing playlist or light a candle and let the fragrance and gentle light signal it is time for you to unwind and facilitate that transition from work to rest time. ❚ Check out Dr Libby’s brand new supplement range, learn how you can optimise your health through the power of plants by visiting bioblends.co.nz.